The newly appointed Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) Chairperson, Michael Reza, has stirred public interest with his recent remarks. Reza mentioned having substantial evidence against three prominent businessmen: Wicknell Chivhayo, Mike Chimombe, and Moses Mpofu. Speaking to journalists during the swearing-in of High Court Judges at the Constitutional Court in Harare, Reza made bold statements. Reza confidently stated that a strong case had been built against the trio, promising detailed evidence.

“We have documents to show the three gentlemen, and I hope I am not prejudicing investigations,” said Reza. “I want Zimbabwe to know that we have not been sitting on this investigation,” he continued. “We have collected certain facts, and when that information comes on form 242, we will use it to go to court.” Reza assured the public, “You will see detailed information with facts, figures, and numbers. Mark my words.”

The Shadow of Political Influence

While his statements may seem bold, Zimbabwe’s political landscape often protects those with political connections from justice. For instance, former Health Minister Obadiah Moyo appeared in court in designer suits and seemed unaffected. Moyo was seen moving around with his bail payment, boxes of bond notes, even before his court appearance. Reza should not forget that Zimbabwe has a history of arrests not followed by convictions, especially in high-profile cases. The recent acquittal of former Public Service Minister Prisca Mupfumira, accused of embezzling over US$80 million, is a notable example. Despite initial excitement over her arrest, Mupfumira was found not guilty.

Political Misalignment and Selective Justice

Those who were sent to prison, like former ministers Samuel Undenge, Patronella Kagonye, and Terrence Mukupe, were politically misaligned. Undenge belonged to a Zanu PF faction opposed to current President Emmerson Mnangagwa, affecting his case. Kagonye was embroiled in a political fight with the now Zanu PF chairperson for Mashonaland East, Daniel Garwe. Mukupe, known for his outspoken nature, often crossed paths with the powers that be. This therefore means that Reza’s promises, while encouraging, must be taken with caution. Zimbabweans have seen many high-profile arrests result in little more than temporary headlines.

Systemic Corruption in Government Departments

While ZACC focuses on high-profile individuals, corruption in government departments remains rampant. The police, Central Vehicle Registry, Vehicle Inspection Department, ZIMRA, and the Registrar General’s office have normalized corruption. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), which should serve the people, now demands bribes to arrest an accused person. Ordinary people face difficulties just to have a docket opened against accused persons if they do not offer the officers something.

Everyday Corruption in Harare

In Harare CBD, police officers extort vendors and criminals, demanding protection fees. Criminals either pay a protection fee or are arrested and released after bribing the officers. All this corruption is happening while ZACC watches and does too little to correct it before it gets worse.